John Mitchell questions impact of smaller ball trial

Red Roses head coach John Mitchell has expressed doubt over the effects a new, smaller ball might have on women’s rugby strategy during upcoming international fixtures.

A bespoke size 4.5 ball will be in use for the September and October WXV Global Series. England's kickers are adapting to this change but remain uncertain of its long-term impacts.

Mitchell, a veteran coach, feels that coaching is key regardless of ball size.

Zoe Harrison, fly half, has already branded the trial as ‘the worst decision ever’ in response to concerns about contestable kicking and potential changes in play styles.

What could be the impact on kickers?

The coach is uncertain if passes may drop or kicks go less far. Mitchell believes it's too early to definitively say how smaller balls might alter their game strategies.

Mitchell said,